Itchy, Scratchy Skin
This article appeared in the Orlando Sentinel.
UPDATE: CLICK TO WATCH DR. BORGMAN'S JULY 2010 FOX 35 APPEARANCE ON THE FLEA OUTBREAK HITTING CENTRAL FLORIDA.
One of the most common problems for dogs is itchy or smelly skin. All
breeds of dog are prone to common skin and respiratory allergies. Fleas and allergies can be a problem year around in Central Florida due to high humidity and high temperatures but many skin problems get worse in the summer.
Allergies occur when a dog's immune system is hypersensitive to allergens, such as mites, household dust, pollen, spores, dander and grass. Many dogs that have allergies also get an over growth of bacteria or yeast that can cause smelly skin and ear infections. Dogs that lick their feet may also have an allergy. While medications may be needed to fight the infection it is important to also identify and treat the underlying cause.
Dogs can be allergic to fleas, pollens in the air, chemicals in
products, proteins in food, and even plastic water and food bowels. To determine the source of your pets discomfort your veterinarian must
start with an exam. Blood test or skin tests can sometimes pinpoint the exact cause the allergy. Sometimes it is hard to remove the case
of the allergies from your pets environment and steps must be taken to minimize the impact, using medications or dietary supplements.
A few dogs develop food allergies, dog food companies have capitalized on this possible problem by creating bags of food marketed for skin and allergies. In the case of food allergies the allergy is caused by protein in the food; changing types or brands of dog food may not help because most diets have many of the same proteins. You should always consult with your veterinarian before changing the diet if you suspect a food allergy because changing your pets diet during an allergy can actually cause your dog to be sensitized to the proteins in the new food making the allergy worse. Also If dog food is stored improperly new allergens can grow in the food. It is best to buy only one month of food at a time so the food will stay fresh.
While dogs Dogs that have allergies can show a variety of different symptoms one recommendation is always the same. If you suspect your pet has an allergy, visit your veterinarian, who can rule out other possibilities in a basic exam, and come up with a plan to get your pet
back to health.
For more information on skin ailments, check out this article on Fleas.
For more information about the Seminole Animal Hospital or to book an appointment please call us at 407-330-7387.